In February 2024, the famed Traveling Jagrs, known for their mullets and matching jerseys in honor of Jaromir Jagr, were last seen celebrating Jagr’s jersey retirement with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Since then, a new group has emerged, rallying around NHL player Seth Jarvis with a similar spirit of camaraderie and dedication. This close-knit circle of friends has been traveling great distances to stand by Jarvis, embodying the same passion that made the previous group legendary.
Originally, this group planned to spend a week with Jarvis in Raleigh, North Carolina. However, when Jarvis was unexpectedly called to replace Brayden Point as Team Canada’s injury substitute at the 2026 Winter Olympics, plans shifted rapidly. Jarvis had to rush to Milan for the event, and his circle of friends faced a significant challenge: how to get there themselves.
Financial Challenges and the Search for Support
Matthew McLeod, one of Jarvis’ closest friends and a university student, explained their struggle on NHL Radio’s Sunday Brunch on SiriusXM.
“We’re doing our best to get to Italy,”
he said.
“We’re all University students, so, you know, money’s a little tight for us, so we’re trying to find some sponsors to help us get out there.”
The group’s efforts gained momentum on social media, where Hurricanes fans and journalists joined their cause by tagging potential sponsors. One critical target was Air Canada, Team Canada’s official airline partner, hoping to secure flights for the entourage.
Air Canada Steps In to Support Jarvis’ Entourage
After reaching out via Instagram comments on an NHL post, Air Canada responded promptly, offering to cover their travel. The group quickly accepted the generous offer. McLeod expressed his gratitude in an interview with CBC reporter Karen Pauls:
“Air Canada’s really helping us out. They’re doing miracles for us just to get us there, and we can’t thank them enough for everything that they’re doing for us.”
He added,
“We’re ecstatic for him. Once in a lifetime opportunity for himself, and for us just to be able to go out there and support him is really something incredible for us.”
The Next Chapter in a Storied Tradition
Much like the Traveling Jagrs of the past, who were instantly recognizable by their No. 68 jerseys and strong bonds, this new group gathers under the banner of Team Canada’s colors. Though they may not share the iconic hairstyle, their devotion highlights the enduring legacy that fans bring to hockey culture.
With their journey underway, Jarvis’ friends embody the essence of team spirit and fan loyalty, showing how close connections can transcend geographical boundaries and financial challenges. If Jarvis adds a mullet to his look, as the legend goes, this new crew will have fully taken up the mantle of the Traveling Jagrs.
#SUNDAYBRUNCH 🍳 🥓 @SiriusXMNHL
Will Seth Jarvis’ #buddies be going to Italy?
One of the buddies, @matthewmcleodd, joined Brunch to explain that a change of plans might be in order
📻 https://t.co/KClAU25RSo @NHLMedia @NHLPR @nhl pic.twitter.com/PPRJY522Aa
— Dave McCarthy (@DaveAMcCarthy) February 8, 2026
CJ
They are looking for sponsors if you might be able to help https://t.co/K3xIlcas3t
— JWBS (@JustWanaBS) February 5, 2026
I for one would support a federal grant to get Jarvis’ buddies to Milan. https://t.co/DmuWwkk0EL
— Thomas Drance (@ThomasDrance) February 5, 2026
Seth Jarvis’ #Winnipeg friends are heading to Milan to watch him and @TeamCanada play for gold, thanks to @AirCanada! I spoke to a couple of the last night and they are PUMPED! @CBCOlympics @Canes pic.twitter.com/AzCz1a9fSo
— Karen Pauls (@karenpaulscbc) February 11, 2026
